Krista Walton, vice chancellor for research and innovation at NC State, has been inducted into the Vanderbilt University School of Engineering’s Academy of Distinguished Alumni. 

Walton, who earned her Ph.D. in chemical engineering from Vanderbilt’s School of Engineering in 2005, was one of three Vanderbilt alumni honored April 16 at the university’s annual Engineering Celebration Dinner in Nashville, Tennessee. 

A recognized expert in materials for energy and environmental systems, including carbon capture, atmospheric water harvesting and air purification, Walton has raised more than $36 million in external research funding, published more than 140 peer-reviewed articles, and delivered numerous invited lectures and keynote presentations over the course of her career.

The Vanderbilt School of Engineering’s Distinguished Alumnus Award recognizes notable achievement, significant service and excellent character. 

“This year’s honorees reflect what makes Vanderbilt’s School of Engineering special,” said Krish Roy, the Bruce and Bridgitt Evans Dean of Engineering and University Distinguished Professor, in an announcement from the school. “In addition to their technical expertise, they are leaders in their fields who use engineering to serve people and address real-world challenges. We are proud to recognize their impact and welcome them into this year’s class of Distinguished Alumni.”

The other two 2026 honorees were Murli Satagopan, a technology leader whose work helped build foundational cloud and identity platforms used around the world, and Gary Butler, the founder, chairman and CEO of Camgian Corporation, a company that develops AI-enabled systems that support national defense.

Vice Chancellor Walton, who is also a Distinguished University Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at NC State, joined our university in July 2025. Prior to joining NC State, Walton served in leadership roles at Georgia Tech, including associate vice president for research operations and infrastructure and professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering.